2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 cooling system holds approximately 16.3 quarts (15.4 liters) of coolant for the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines, and 17.1 quarts (16.2 liters) for the 2.7L I4 engine, and 16.9 quarts (16.0 liters) for the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity:
  • 5.3L & 6.2L V8: ~16.3 quarts (15.4 liters)
  • 2.7L I4: ~17.1 quarts (16.2 liters)
  • 3.0L Duramax Diesel: ~16.9 quarts (16.0 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: DEX-COOL, Orange/Pink, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant, GM Standard GMW3420 (also meets ASTM D3306 and D4985).
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 prediluted or concentrate mixed with distilled water.

Capacity by Engine Option

Flush Interval

Chevrolet recommends a coolant flush for the 2021 Silverado 1500 every 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. For severe duty use (e.g., frequent towing, extreme temperatures, off-road driving), it is advisable to inspect your coolant more frequently and consider reducing the flush interval to ensure optimal cooling system performance.

How to Refill & Bleed

Refilling and bleeding the cooling system on a 2021 Silverado 1500 is crucial to prevent air pockets, which can lead to overheating. Always perform this when the engine is cool.

1. Drain: With the engine cool, thoroughly drain the old coolant from the radiator drain cock and, if accessible, from any engine block drains. Properly dispose of the old coolant.
2. Rinse (Optional): If flushing, you can fill the system with distilled water, run the engine with the heater on until operating temperature, then drain. Repeat until the water runs clear.
3. Refill: Close all drains. Slowly fill the coolant reservoir with the specified DEX-COOL 50/50 mixture until it reaches the FULL COLD mark. For initial filling, you can also slowly pour coolant directly into the radiator if accessible, then top off the reservoir.
4. Bleed:
   • Start the engine and let it run with the heater on full blast (lowest fan speed) and the radiator cap off (or reservoir cap, if accessible to observe fluid level). This helps open the thermostat and circulate coolant. Some Silverado models may have a small bleed screw near the thermostat housing; if present, open it slightly until a steady stream of coolant (without air bubbles) emerges, then close it.
   • As the engine warms up, continuously monitor the coolant level in the reservoir and add more as needed to maintain the "FULL COLD" level.
   • Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses several times to help dislodge air pockets.
   • Once the engine reaches operating temperature and the thermostat opens (you